No matter what the reason is for why you have became grandparents raising grandchildren, one of the most important things you can do is stay healthy.
As older people tend to have more health concerns than younger adults, the job of staying as healthy as you can may take a little more effort.
You have grandparents rights to raising your grandchildren so maintain a lifestyle that allows you to feel like raising them.
Your grandchildren need you for many things.
They not only rely on you for their food and shelter, they also need to lean on you for emotional support and psychological strength.
More than likely, their world has been turned upside down with the drastic change in their living arrangements.
They may have come from an abusive family setting, one of neglect, or they may have even lost their parents due to death or incarceration.
The many emotions your grandchildren will be going through can leave them either withdrawn, angry and lashing out, or extra clingy.
You will need to be able to show them that you are always available for them when they need you, no matter in what way.
If you do not take care of your own health, you will not have the stamina or strength to give your grandchildren what they need.
Grandparents raising grandchildren need to deal with all of the things a parent would normally.
You will need to make decisions regarding their medical care, schooling and other important issues.
You may be expected to meet with teachers,go to school events, take them to the doctors or any other place.
If you are not taking care of your own health, you will not be able to help your grandchildren.
If you find that you are having a hard time coping emotionally due to the death of your own child or any other traumatic event that may have occurred to your family that resulted in your raising your grandchildren, there is help for you.
Pushing your own feelings aside, or not facing them, does not help your grandchildren learn to deal with the situation either.
Reaching out to a support group can be very valuable to your emotional health.
You may find that family counseling with your grandchildren can be a great benefit for all of you.
For your physical health, you should maintain a healthy balanced life in every way possible.
Don't stop taking those daily walks, don't stop eating that special diet your doctor ordered.
Take naps if you need them, when you can.
If you have a physical disability or an ailment like arthritis that flares up some days hindering your ability to handle things around the home, have a backup plan.
Find someone in your family who is willing to come and help you when you need it.
This will allow your grandchildren the stability they need in being able to stay with you and not have to face another move.
Parents can often find themselves exhausted by busy schedules, as grandparents raising grandchildren, you must ensure that you do not take on to much without proper rest, relaxation and nourishment.
Your health comes first.
You will not be able to help your grandchildren if you allow yourself to get worn down or hospitalized.